GEORGE TOWN: Paying RM40,000 for the performance of two songs is not something people do every day.

However, for the man who coughed up the large sum, the payment was not for a simple, everyday matter.

New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd deputy chairman Datuk Seri Kalimullah Hassan has always had a soft spot for his former school -- the Methodist Boys School (MBS) here.

He has taken an interest in the development of the school since his departure, and when he learned of MBS's need to raise funds for a new building, he jumped at the chance to contribute.

Kalimullah certainly paid "a song" for his interest on Sunday, during a fund-raising dinner held here to raise RM2 million to build a three-storey building for Form Six students at the venerable school.
He donated RM20,000 for each of two songs which were performed by another MBS alumni, Tan Sri Dr Sak Cheng Lum at the dinner, which was attended by 500 guests.

The two songs performed live by state MCA veteran Sak were Frank Sinatra's Strangers in the Night, requested by guest of honour, Second Finance Minister Tan Sri Nor Mohamed Yakcop; and Sinatra's My Way, which was requested by former chief minister Tan Sri Dr Koh Tsu Koon.

Kalimullah, who is proud to be able to chip in so that the missionary school continues to provide quality education for the young generation, said his contribution would go towards the construction of two classrooms in the building.

Founded by Rev B.H. Balderstone in 1891, the school has a rich history and a strong reputation for producing renowned students, who included Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi and Koh.

Also present at the dinner were MBS Board of Governors chairman Datuk Lim Cheng Chuan and former students Datuk Vaseehar Hassan and Liga Muslim President Datuk Haja Najmudeen Kadir.

MBS principal Khor Hong Yin said the school needed a new building to accommodate the increasing enrolment of Form Six students.

The school has raised almost half of the RM2 million needed and is seeking a budget from the Education Ministry to finance the remaining cost.

"We are thankful that Tan Sri Nor Mohamed has pledged to help us in getting the funds from the ministry.

"Hopefully, construction can start by the middle of next year," he said.